As a consumer, you want the most for your money and that doesn't stop with your health care. Health care costs are rising, but being proactive and using your benefits wisely will help keep your out-of-pocket costs down. Because health care costs are interconnected, your smart choices keep costs down for everyone, including you.
Costs can differ by thousands of dollars within the same region and health plan network.
Know what’s in your plan and research costs for care
- The first step to being a better health care consumer is to know your benefits. You have tools and resources available to help you understand your benefits and coverage, how much treatments may cost, how to use resources, features that come with your plan and more.
Establish and maintain a relationship with your Primary Care Provider (PCP)
Regular visits to your PCP for preventive and routine care help your doctor detect early signs of chronic conditions or illness and help you avoid more expensive treatment. The good news is your TRS-ActiveCare health plan covers 100% of your preventive care with in-network providers.
Your PCP can also help keep your costs down by:
- referring you to in-network specialists, which keeps you from paying more or having claims denied
- helping you manage your medications and prescribing lower-cost options when possible
Know where to go for care
Different care options come at different costs. Knowing where to go for care helps you avoid an expensive trip to the emergency room (ER) when a lower cost option is appropriate.
Preparation will help you make smart choices during a health crisis. This list, from least to most expensive, helps you find the right provider at the right time:
- Your PCP is the best place to go for routine screenings, annual wellness exams, fever, colds, flu, sore throat, stomach aches and other types of non-emergency care. Remember preventive care is covered at 100% with in-network providers.
- Urgent care centers are convenient and more affordable than ERs when you need care during the evening, weekends, or holidays. An urgent care center is a good option when you need services like X-rays or stitches, but you're not having a life-threatening issue.
- ERs are for life-threatening conditions like heart attack, stroke or trouble breathing. Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital ER if you have life-threatening symptoms. ERs are the most expensive care option and shouldn't be used for nonemergent care.
- Avoid freestanding ERs. They might look like urgent care centers, but they can cost A LOT more. They're typically out of network, so you may be on the hook for paying a huge bill and still not get the care you need.
- When your doctor orders tests or you need surgery, use in-network laboratories, imaging centers and surgical centers. They're more convenient than hospitals and cost much less. Talk with your doctor about alternatives for your procedure outside the hospital.
Use Your Health and Wellness Tools
Take advantage of the many health and wellness programs that come with your plan – at no extra cost. Health and wellness programs mean a healthier you and less trips to the doctor.
Go generic
Name-brand drugs can be expensive, and you don't want to be surprised at the register. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for generic drugs. Generics are made with the same active ingredients, but typically cost a lot less. If a generic is not available, ask for a lower cost alternative.
TRS-ActiveCare and TRS-Care Standard Resources
Cost Estimator
The Cost Estimator in The Cost Estimator in Provider Finder® lets you research and compare in-network procedures. It shows what you will pay based on your plan’s copay, coinsurance, deductible and other benefits.
TRS Virtual Health
TRS Virtual Health is a great option when you can’t see your PCP in person. Use your virtual health to speak to board-certified doctors, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from your computer, phone or mobile app.
BCBSTX App
Download the BCBSTX App by texting BCBSTXAPP to 33633.
Personal Health Guides
A Personal Health Guide can help you find a provider and even schedule an appointment. They're available 24/7 at 1-866-355-5999, or you can chat with them through the BCBSTX App.
TRS-Care Medicare Resources
As a TRS-Care Medicare Advantage plan participant you have access to discounts to help you save on products and services like:
- Home-delivered meals
- In-home personal care
- Blood pressure monitors and cuffs
- Dental services
- Vision services
- Fitness gear
- And more
You can also get discounts on acupuncture, chiropractic, massage therapy, natural healing, physical and occupational therapy services and more through the WholeHealth Living Choices network. Plus, save on hearing aids through UnitedHealthcare Hearing.
How it works
1. To access all of the discounts mentioned above, visit uhcretireediscounts.lifemart.com.
2. Enter your email address to sign up and access your discounts.
3. Select any discount to view the details and instructions. (You may be redirected to that company's website and additional registration requirements may apply.)
Questions?
Call 1-866-347-9507, TTY 711, 7 a.m.–6 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday.